Top 5 Left-Backs At The 2014 World Cup

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If you are going to power rank the left-backs playing in the World Cup, the safe bet is to go with those featuring with the powerhouse nations. Three players on the list come from La Liga with the other two in the Premier League. Unfortunately for David Alaba, his country did not make the cut. Before you ask, there is no Ashley Cole.

5. Patrice Evra

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5. Patrice Evra

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The attack is generally where the focus is for France . However, it is Patrice Evra who could be key to moving out of the group stage. He will be tasked with stopping Ecuador's speedy wingers. This means stopping Manchester United teammate Antonio Valencia. Evra's strike against Bayern Munich in the Champions League also shows that he can threaten around the box.

4. Leighton Baines

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4. Leighton Baines

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Leighton Baines becomes the forgotten man when people insist on staying enamored with Ashley Cole. Baines has shown loyalty to Everton and is the kind of player who is consistently good. There is a rumor that he could be moved into the midfield, but only because of deficiencies with the rest of the roster. Baines can show his worth against Uruguay and Italy in the World Cup.

3. Fabio Coentrao

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3. Fabio Coentrao

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Fabio Coentrao is rounding into form as the Real Madrid season winds down. He will be playing until late May in the Champions League. As was the case in the right-back rankings, there are teammates on this list. Coentrao has seen reduced minutes but starred in the deconstruction of Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Graham Zusi or Alejandro Bedoya are going to have to try to get by Coentrao when the U.S. plays Portugal.

2. Jordi Alba

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2. Jordi Alba

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Jordi Alba is currently hurt but expected to be back to full fitness in time for the World Cup. He started the majority of games for Spain during their qualifying run. He may not win out in the air, but he has a knack for interceptions and making the smart pass. He has amazing speed as well, which makes him a tough matchup for any team.

1. Marcelo

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1. Marcelo

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Marcelo has taken the bulk of minutes from Coentrao at Real Madrid but has been battling a hamstring injury. He was in the starting lineup this past weekend against Valencia. Marcelo will have a chance to raise the trophy in his home country. He is the best dribbling fullback right now and provides great pace. He will be fun to watch during the World Cup.

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